Can Apple Watch Call 911 Without Phone?

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Apple Watch comes with a fall detection feature that automatically calls 911 in case it detects a hard fall. You can also initiate calls to emergency services manually in case you need any assistance.

However, the most commonly asked question by explorers & new users is whether or not an Apple Watch can call 911 without iPhone in case of an emergency. And, that’s what I have discussed in detail in this article.

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Quick Takeaway
Only the cellular version of the Apple Watch can call 911 without a phone as it can work independently. On the other hand, a non-cellular Apple Watch cannot call emergency services without a phone.

Can Apple Watch Call 911 Without Phone?

dialer apple watch

If you are using the cellular version of the Apple Watch then you will be able to make calls using your watch.

Non-cellular variants of the Apple Watch require it to be connected to a phone or be in close proximity to one another. Similarly, you can make calls using the WiFi calling if you are on a WiFi network that supports it. However, if you are connected to your WiFi network then you are probably near your phone too.

So non-cellular Apple Watch users won’t be able to make calls without their phone.

Can Non-Cellular Apple Watch Call 911 Without iPhone Nearby?

Apple watch sos call

No, the non-cellular Apple Watch does not come with a built-in cellular radio like the cellular variant of the Apple Watch. So it cannot make calls without having a tethered connection to iPhone.

Can Apple Watch Call SOS Without Cellular Services?

Can Apple Watch Call 911 Without Phone

If you are using the cellular version of the Apple Watch & it doesn’t have any cellular service then yes you might be able to make calls. Because it is mandatory to ensure that calls should get through by using any network provider service available in your area.

However, without cellular service, emergency service will not get to your location. Also, the dispatcher will not be able to call back to you if your call drops.

The same will be the case with the non-cellular Apple Watch variant. If Apple Watch is connected to iPhone which is not in service range you will still be able to make a 911 call. But the non-cellular Apple Watch is not capable enough on its own to make calls if it’s not connected to iPhone.

Similarly, if you are in a remote area with no service available at all then your SOS call on Apple Watch won’t go through.

How Far Can You Be Away From Your Phone With Apple Watch?

You can operate Apple Watch within a distance of 10 meters between the Apple Watch & the phone. The Bluetooth signal can also get hampered if there is any interference like walls between the two. So you will need to be in the 10-meter range if you want to call 911 using Apple Watch.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you now know the answer to your question & know whether or not Apple Watch is for you. I would recommend going with a smartwatch with a cellular support variant if it is an important feature for you.

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FAQs

Will My Apple Watch Call 911 If My Heart Stops?

No, Apple Watch does not automatically calls emergency if you have any health issue. It will only do that if it detects a hard fall & fall detection is enabled.

Which Apple Watch Calls 911 If You Fall?

All Apple Watch variants will call SOS if it detects you have fallen & you aren’t moving.

Will Apple Watch Fall Detection Work Without iPhone?

For calling, Apple Watch needs to be connected to iPhone as calls are made using the network on the phone. So if you are out of range & using a non-cellular Apple Watch then fall detection will not work.

Hemant Mendiratta

Hemant's love for watches started when his grandfather gifted him his Rolex watch when he turned 18! Being a teenager it was a big deal for him. Later when he got his first job he bought Fossil Palm Pilot back in 2003 which was a smartwatch. Since then smartwatches have come a long way and so is Hemant's love for them. His experience with watches inspired him to start Wearholic and share his knowledge of wearables including watches, smartwatches, smart glasses, & smart clothing.

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